How to Troubleshoot Blank Printing on Thermal Printers

0 0

Introduction

This application note provides instructions for troubleshooting and resolving issues where Star Thermal Desktop or Portable printers are producing blank receipts.

Supported Printers: All Thermal Printers
Supported Interfaces: N/A
Supported Environments: N/A

Before you begin

There are typically three common causes for blank receipt printing:

The paper being used is not thermal receipt paper
The paper is loaded incorrectly
The printer’s thermal head is obstructed or requires cleaning

Important! If your point-of-sale software is web-based and the printer feeds several feet of blank paper after a print job, please refer to the following article for guidance:
How to Configure Margins and Paper Size on a Web Browser

Confirm the Paper is Thermal-Coated

Thermal printers, such as the TSP100III and TSP650II series, require thermal-coated paper, while impact printers like the SP700 series use bond (non-thermal) paper.

To confirm whether your paper roll is thermal-coated, gently scratch the surface of the paper with a coin, fingernail, or other hard object. If a gray or black mark appears where you scratched, the paper is thermal-coated and suitable for use with thermal printers.

Confirm the Paper is Loaded Correctly

When installing the paper roll, the correct orientation will vary depending on the printer model. The paper must exit either from the bottom-up or from the top-down, as illustrated in the following images. Proper loading ensures reliable printing and helps prevent paper jams or blank receipts.

Clear any Obstructions and Clean the Thermal Head

Note: Do not clean the thermal head immediately after printing, as it may still be hot. Use caution to avoid static electricity during cleaning, as it can damage the thermal head. Turn the printer back on only after the alcohol has completely dried from the cleaned area.

Turn off the printer and open the cover to remove the paper roll. Inspect the area around the thermal head and clear away any loose paper or debris that may be preventing proper contact between the thermal head and the paper. To remove any built-up blackened paper dust from the surface of the thermal head, gently wipe it clean using a cotton swab or soft cloth moistened with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Allow the thermal head to air-dry completely before closing the cover and powering the printer back on.

Note: If your printer continues to feed blank paper after all the above, please contact a Star Micronics agent for further support HERE.

Printers

Cash Drawers

Scales

Scanners

Peripherals